2026 Ram 1500 vs. 2025 Ford F-150: Towing, Payload, and Power You Can Use

Purpose-built comparison for Rhode Island buyers: You haul boats, gear, and life. This matchup cuts the fluff and zooms in on towing, payload, and engine choices for the 2026 Ram 1500 and 2025 Ford F-150, using published figures and official guides. Short answers first:

 
 
       
  • Max towing: F-150 up to 13,500 lb (when properly equipped); Ram 1500 up to 11,610 lb.   
  • Max payload: F-150 up to 2,440 lb; Ram 1500 up to 2,360 lb.   
  • Powertrains: Ram adds Hurricane I-6 choices (plus returning V8 and Pentastar V6); Ford brings a deep bench-2.7L, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost, and the PowerBoost Hybrid. 

Engines & Output 

2026 Ram 1500: Factory page lists two 3.0L Hurricane I-6s, the returning 5.7L HEMI V8 option, and the familiar 3.6L Pentastar V6, with max outputs of 540 hp and 521 lb-ft depending on configuration. For 2026, Ram also introduces a value-focused Express trim to broaden entry pricing. 

2025 Ford F-150: Official resources show a menu that includes 2.7L EcoBoost, 5.0L V8, 3.5L EcoBoost, and the 3.5L PowerBoost Hybrid-useful if you want on-board power and improved efficiency without losing capability. 

Towing: The Numbers That Matter   

  • Ram 1500 (2026): Max conventional rating up to 11,610 lb. That covers most center-console fishing boats, landscaping trailers, and camping rigs common around Narragansett Bay and beyond.   
  • F-150 (2025): Max conventional rating up to 13,500 lb with the right axle and tow packages-use Ford's towing guide to match trim, axle, and GCWR. If you tow at the upper edge a lot, the F-150's extra margin is handy. 

Real-world tip: Always cross-reference the door-jamb label and trailer weight stickers. Brochure numbers are ceilings; your exact build can be lower.

Payload & Bed Use   

  • Ram 1500: Max payload up to 2,360 lb. Ram's multi-function tailgate and available in-bed solutions make weekend projects smoother.   
  • F-150: Max payload up to 2,440 lb. Strong if you're hauling pavers, gear, or ladders daily. The Pro Power Onboard system (on certain trims) doubles as a job-site generator.
 
 

Ride Quality & Tech 

Ram 1500: Known for a refined ride and quiet cabin-great on I-195 stints or long coastal loops. The latest Uconnect interface remains clean and quick. The new Express trim keeps cost of entry down without feeling bare-bones. 

F-150: Class-leading towing tech and camera aids keep trailering straightforward. PowerBoost Hybrid is a unique draw if you love the idea of portable power and fewer fuel stops. 

Which One Fits Your Work & Weekends?   

  • Pick Ram 1500 if you want a polished ride, a strong cabin experience, and the punchy new Hurricane I-6 with legitimate tow and payload for most needs.   
  • Pick F-150 if maxed-out conventional tow ratings or onboard generator power are non-negotiable. 

Local next step: Bring your trailer weight, typical cargo, and must-have options to Elmwood CDJR. We'll spec a Ram 1500 that fits your numbers-not just your wish list. Simple, legit, and no word salad.

References & Data Links